As each school year passes, there are many changes in technology. It is constantly being updated and improved. "As with so many miraculous technologies, the question is how we will take advantage of their capabilities to bring about the kind of future education systems our society wants and our economy needs" (Roblyer & Doering, 2013, p.22). Many teachers incorporate the use of software. The three main types of software that are used are word processing, spreadsheets, and databases. "Their primary benefits to instruction are to reduce the labor involved in preparing student products and to remove logistical barriers to learning" (Roblyer & Doering, 2013, p. 130).
"The internet has made such a difference in our society that it is difficult to remember when we did not depend on it for communication, instruction, and even entertainment" (Roblyer & Doering, 2013, p. 210). With today's educators and students, using the internet is mandatory. We use it to look up information, to email, to blog, and to send instant messages. We have grown to depend on the internet for fast access and have become a generation that is technologically savy.
One of the main concerns that educators have is how to motivate students to learn. "Teachers are turning to the interactive and visual qualities of software and websites to increase motivation for reading and writing" (Roblyer & Doering, 2013, p. 282). I enjoy using the iPad with my reading instruction. When I am working with my 1st graders, I like using the Word Magic app. It is a great tool to use when I am teaching how to read and recognize letters. Another app that I use on my iPad with my younger students is ABC Phonics Word Sight. This application makes learning sight words fun.
I also incorporate technology when teaching math because there are so many strategies that are available. "These include using virtual manipulatives, fostering mathematical problem solving, allowing representation of mathematical principles, implementing data-driven curricula, supporting math-related communications, and motivating skill building and practice" (Roblyer & Doering, 2013, p. 319). Some of the apps that I use on the iPad when teaching math are Ace Kids Math Games, MathBoard, and MakeChange. When using the Ace Kids Math Games app, students learn to count, add, and subtract visually. The MathBoard app can be used with younger and older students because it teaches addition, subtraction, multiplication, and division.
When counting and adding change, I like using the MakeChange app with my students.
As you can see, there are a mulititude of apps that can be downloaded and used in the classroom on an iPad. Many of these apps are used daily as reinforcement for skills that are taught. Technology in the classroom offers so much more than traditional teaching. It entertains, motivates, and enhances learning.
The Smart Way to Use iPads in the Classroom http://t.co/xSLIoORt6U #ED5059413UWA — Barbara Banks (@BanksB2424) July 3, 2013
i just read an article hat stated we are currently teaching in an educational revolution. Your blog concerning the internet and how it is incorporated in the classroom just reiterates that point. Basically at no other point in the history of education has instruction undergone so many changes.
ReplyDeleteGreat job! It amazes me how much time is put into using technology in the classroom. I remember going to school using the computer maybe a few times a week. Now students are using some kind of technology most the day at school. I do agree that it does make a huge difference in the motivation and engagement of your students. I am still learning new things everyday just to keep up with them.
ReplyDeleteEducation and the use of technology within education is constantly changing. As a classroom teacher, I love to use technology within my classroom, however, I do not want my students to forget traditional methods of instruction and learning. I have a nephew and niece who are starting PreK this year and they know to operate their iPad better than I do. I will definitely be downloading these apps to help enrich their skills and knowledge.
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